Korean Braised Tofu with Kimchi – Authentic Recipe

Braised tofu with kimchi is a quintessentially Korean dish that offers a harmonious blend of the spicy tang of fermented kimchi, the creamy richness of tofu, and the subtle aroma of scallions. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also nutritious, easy to prepare, and perfect for any family meal.

Ingredients (for 2-3 Servings)

• Tofu: 300g (choose soft or regular, smooth and mildly sour)
• Napa cabbage kimchi: 200g (prefer kimchi that is moderately fermented)
• Pork belly: 100g (sliced thinly, can be substituted with beef or mushrooms if desired)
• Onion: 1/2 (sliced into wedges)
• Scallions: 2 (chopped)
• Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
• Seasonings: Soy sauce, sugar, Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), sesame oil, seasoning powder, pepper

Korean Braised Tofu with Kimchi Ingredients

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Braised Tofu with Kimchi

Preparing the Ingredients

• Cut the tofu into bite-sized squares. If using soft tofu, pat dry to prevent it from breaking during cooking.
• Cut the kimchi into bite-sized pieces, squeezing out excess liquid if it’s too sour.
• Slice the pork belly thinly. Slice the onion into wedges, chop the scallions, and mince the garlic.

Marinating

• Mix the kimchi with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of Korean red pepper flakes, 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Let it marinate for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Steps

1. Heat a little cooking oil in a pot and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the pork belly and stir-fry until it turns crispy.
3. Add the marinated kimchi and stir well with the pork.
4. Add the onion and continue to stir-fry until softened.
5. Pour in about 200ml of water (or adjust to desired consistency). Bring to a boil.
6. Gently place the tofu into the pot, cover with a lid, and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
7. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Finally, sprinkle chopped scallions on top before turning off the heat.

Korean Braised Tofu with Kimchi Final Dish

Tips for the Perfect Braised Tofu with Kimchi

• Choose quality kimchi: Moderately fermented kimchi with a vibrant red color and distinctive aroma will enhance the dish’s appeal.
• Adjust the spiciness: The amount of Korean red pepper flakes can be increased or decreased according to personal taste.
• Flexible ingredients: Pork belly adds richness, but you can substitute it with mushrooms or seafood for variety.

“The secret to delicious braised tofu with kimchi is balancing the spicy, sour, sweet, and salty flavors. Experiment to find the perfect recipe for your family.” – Culinary Expert Kim Hana

Creative Variations of Braised Tofu with Kimchi

• Vegan version: Substitute meat with varieties of mushrooms like shiitake, enoki, or oyster mushrooms.
• Adding eggs: Incorporate boiled chicken or quail eggs to enhance the richness.
• Seafood addition: Combine with shrimp, squid, or clams for a unique flavor.

“Braised tofu with kimchi is highly versatile. You can be creative with different ingredients to suit your preferences.” – Culinary Expert Park Jae-Sang

Important Notes During Preparation

• Avoid overcooking the tofu as it can become mushy and lose its texture.
• Handle soft tofu gently to maintain its shape during cooking.
• The dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking to preserve its flavor.

Conclusion

With its simple recipe and easily accessible ingredients, braised tofu with kimchi is sure to become a fantastic choice for family meals. Try it out and share your results with the food-loving community at “Sổ Tay Món Ăn”. Wishing you success and enjoyable cooking experiences!

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

• What type of tofu is best?
  Both soft and regular tofu work well. Soft tofu is tender and absorbs flavors easily, while regular tofu has a firmer texture.
• Which kimchi is best for cooking?
  Napa cabbage kimchi that is moderately fermented, with a vibrant red color and distinctive aroma, is the ideal choice.
• Can Korean red pepper flakes be substituted?
  Yes, you can use regular chili powder, chili paste, or fresh ground chili, but adjust the amount to avoid excessive spiciness.
• How long should it be braised?
  Braising for about 15-20 minutes is sufficient to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors while maintaining its texture.
• Can this dish be made vegetarian?
  Absolutely! Simply substitute the meat with mushrooms or other vegetarian ingredients.